Explain what a titration curve is, and sketch its shape.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A titration curve is a graph showing the pH of the solution versus the volume of titrant added during a titration. It has four phases: the initial phase, the buffering phase, the steep rise or fall around the equivalence point, and the final phase. To sketch it, draw a nearly flat line for the initial phase, a slightly rising or falling line for the buffering phase, a steep line at the equivalence point, and a less steep line beyond the equivalence point.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Titration Curve

A titration curve is a graph that reveals the volume of added titrant (a solution of known concentration) in relation to the pH of the solution. It's used to visualize the process of titration, which involves finding the concentration of an unknown solution (the analyte) by adding the titrant.
02

Recognize Phases of a Titration Curve

There are typically four phases in a titration curve. Before the equivalence point, when only a little titrant has been added, the curve is initially flat, representing the initial pH of the analyte. As more titrant is added, the curve rises or falls gradually. This is the buffering region, where the analyte resists changes in pH. Close to the equivalence point, the curve starts to rise or fall sharply as the titrant neutralizes the analyte. At the equivalence point, all the analyte has been neutralized by the titrant. Beyond the equivalence point, the curve starts to flatten again as the solution becomes nearly all titrant.
03

Sketch the Titration Curve

To sketch a titration curve, first draw a horizontal line for the volume of titrant and a vertical line for the pH. Start by drawing a nearly flat segment for the initial phase. Then draw a slightly rising or falling segment for the buffering region. Draw a steep slope at the equivalence point. Finally, finish with a less steep, nearly flat segment beyond the equivalence point.

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